One carbon unit
One carbon units (or groups) are one carbon-containing groups produced in catabolism of some amino acids. They are
Therapeutic Application of Folate Analogs
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU):
- While not a folate analog itself, 5-FU is used in conjunction with folate to enhance its binding to thymidylate synthase, thereby inhibiting this enzyme more effectively.
- Used in treating various types of cancers, including colon, head, and neck cancers.
Therapeutic Application of Folate Analogs
Pemetrexed:
- Similar to methotrexate, pemetrexed inhibits several enzymes involved in folate metabolism and nucleotide synthesis.
- It is particularly effective in the treatment of pleural mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer.
MCQs
1. What are the primary donors of one-carbon units in human metabolism?
- A) Methionine and lysine
- B) Serine and glycine
- C) Alanine and valine
- D) Histidine and arginine.
2. What is the primary role of S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe) in cellular metabolism?
- A) Hydrolyzing amino acids
- B) Donating methyl groups in methylation reactions
- C) Facilitating the oxidation of fatty acids
- D) Enhancing the breakdown of glucose
3. Folate derivatives are essential for which of the following processes?
- A) Protein degradation
- B) Lipid oxidation
- C) Synthesis of nucleic acids
- D) Synthesis of steroid hormones
4. Which enzyme is inhibited by the drug Methotrexate, affecting folate metabolism?
- A) DNA polymerase
- B) Dihydrofolate reductase
- C) Ribonucleotide reductase
- D) Thymidylate synthase